TV
Rumored ‘Bachelorette’ winner defends Taylor Frankie Paul after abrupt season ax
The rumored winner of “The Bachelorette” spoke out in support of Taylor Frankie Paul after ABC pulled the plug on Season 22.
Doug Mason — who was Paul’s final rose recipient, according to Reality Steve — shared a “positive” message for the “Secret Lives of Mormon Wives” star on his Instagram Stories.
“In light of everything that’s happened, I’m just sending out prayers to Taylor because that was her moment and her moment was blocked. All we can do right now is just be hopeful,” he wrote in the Friday upload.
“I’m headed off to run and watch the sunrise, so hope you guys have a great day. Let’s stay positive and show nothing but support for people in need,” Mason concluded.
According to the known spoiler blogger, Mason and Paul got engaged but ended their relationship a month later during a trip he made to Utah to visit her.
The alleged exes were most recently spotted together on March 14 in Los Angeles, per photos obtained by the US Sun on Thursday.
In the snaps, Paul and Mason were seemingly filming additional scenes for “The Bachelorette” before the installment was canceled.
ABC pulled the plug on Season 22 three days before the premiere due to a disturbing video leaked that saw Paul throwing chairs at her ex Dakota Mortensen, during a 2023 domestic violence dispute.
Although the 31-year-old was arrested, the charges were later dropped.
“In light of the newly released video just surfaced today, we have made the decision to not move forward with the new season of ‘The Bachelorette’ at this time, and our focus is on supporting the family,” the network told Page Six in a statement.
Paul’s spokesperson told us she “is very grateful for ABC’s support as she prioritizes her family’s safety and security” and “is currently exploring all of her options, seeking support, and preparing to own and share her story.”
“After years of silently suffering extensive mental and physical abuse as well as threats of retaliation, Taylor is finally gaining the strength to face her accuser and taking steps to ensure that she and her children are protected from any further harm,” the rep claimed.
Several of Paul’s contestants have spoken out on the network’s decision to cancel the season.
Singer-songwriter Clayton Johnson wrote via his Instagram Stories on Thursday, “I can honestly say this was one of the best groups of men I’ve ever been around. So much integrity, respect and heart across the board. Even the tough moments never took away from that.”
“Any woman would be lucky to be with any of these guys. Real integrity. Real respect. Real men. Love you boys.”
If you or someone you know is affected by any of the issues raised in this story, call the National Domestic Violence Hotline at 1-800-799-SAFE (7233) or text START to 88788.
Read the full article here